What to Make This Weekend: Colorful Cocoa, a Cactus Christmas Tree + More

Thanksgiving is done, which means you get a little bit of a break this weekend before you really have to buckle down and start picking out the perfect gifts for your #squad and sending out holiday cards. Speaking of buckle, don’t worry if you still can’t do up your pants — just pull on your PJs and settle in for some good ol’ crafting fun. Whether you’re finally ready to bust out the Christmas tree ornaments or you just want to treat yourself to a stylish statement piece, these 10 DIY projects are just the thing to get you out of your food coma and into a holiday frame of mind.

1. DIY Christmas Cactus: Pine, bye — this year it’s all about the cactus. Whether you’re trying to save space or you just want something a little off-the-wall, this DIY paper maché cactus might just be the coolest Christmas tree alternative ever. (via Brit + Co)

3. DIY Lazy Susan Christmas Tree: Imagine a world where your mini Christmas tree could double as a place to serve cookies and other sweet treats. Now stop imagining and get makin’, because that’s exactly what this lazy Susan tree is for. The wood dowel branches give a chic, minimalist vibe, and you can feel confident there won’t be any faux needles in your frosting. (via Damask Love)

4. DIY Flamingo and Swan Pool Float Ornaments: Hmm, cactus Christmas tree and pool float ornaments? There might be a theme going on here… and that theme is awesome. Keep your floatie dreams alive and well in cold weather with these DIY flamingos and swans that’ll have you reminiscing over your summer photos. (via A Kailo Chic Life)

5. DIY Velvet Winter Fashion: Velvet is the new “It” girl this season. Before you miss out on this trend because of strict budgeting (#adulting), give this DIY a try and update something you already have in your closet. (via Brit + Co)

6. DIY Copper and Marble Jewelry Stand: Anyone picked up a little extra bling to dazzle over the holidays? This elegant copper stand will look stunning on your dresser… oh, and it takes about 10 minutes to put together. You can’t afford NOT to make it! (via Lovely Indeed)

7. DIY Bubbly Bar Cart: Just because Thanksgiving is over, doesn’t mean the cocktails stop coming. Balloons are a fairly inexpensive decor material, but they can make a serious statement, especially when you completely envelop your bar cart in a waterfall of pink and orange “bubbles.” (via A Kailo Chic Life)

8. DIY Gym Bag: After a day dedicated to eating and napping, you might feel extra motivated to hit up your favorite workout class. Head to the gym in style with this fab DIY bag that effortlessly transitions from brunch to yoga to Crossfit. (via Brit + Co)

9. DIY Pumpkin Spice Sugar Scrub: Yes, it smells good enough to eat, but please resist. While you probably can’t stand the thought of eating another sugary goodie, treat your skin to a sumptuous sugar scrub. A light exfoliation and blend of cinnamon and spices are just what your winter skin is craving. (via A Beautiful Mess)

10. DIY Epic Christmas Wreath: If you’re looking for an inexpensive way to make a statement this season, look no further than the Brit + Co line for Cheeky. Yep, who knew paper plates could look so freaking stylish? Create the most epic Christmas wreath out of gold letter balloons, taped honeycombs, balloons and Cheeky plates. (via Brit + Co)

What are you looking forward to making this weekend? Show us your project by tagging us on Instagram + using the hashtag #iamcreative! And follow us on Pinterest for even more fun DIY ideas.